Miss Delaware USA Prepares for National Pageant Amid Pandemic

October 19th, 5:27 PM EDT By Rodaris Richardson

DELAWARE - A Delaware beauty queen prepares for a national competition but not how she would have imagined, because of the pandemic.

Katie Guevarra has been preparing to represent the first state at Miss USA for almost a year.

"We would have been competing around May or June," said Miss Delaware USA 2020, Katie Guevarra.

A change that has unexpectedly extended her reign. But the date change of the national pageant isn't the only thing that will be different this time around.

"I don't think it's been released to the public yet, but the interviews with the judges will be held virtually, mine is actually tomorrow," added Guevarra.

Before being able to compete, each contestant will be tested for COVID-19 twice.

"We get tested at home, and then we submit our actual test not even our results and one company will be in charge of our kits and then once we arrive in Memphis we will be quarantined for 12 hours while we receive our 2nd coronavirus test results," explained Guevarra.

There will also be a limit on the number of people allowed in the theatre.

"Our venue originally held I believe 1200 people but now it's a closed event to 300 people, those tickets actually sold out within 4 hours," said Guevarra.

Each person there must wear a mask and will have to receive a temperature check.

Guevara says her goal as Miss Delaware USA was to bring mentorship programs to schools across Delaware.

"However schools shut down in March," added Guevarra.

But with the help of social media, she was still able to accomplish that goal.

"I was able to use my platform to give other women a voice and a platform to share their personal stories and hopes of inspiring others during this difficult time," added Guevarra.

Remaining positive is what keeps her going.

"Despite the circumstances, I wouldn't change a single thing about my year, it has been an opportunity of a lifetime that has changed my life for the better," assured Guevarra.

The Miss USA pageant is set to take place on November 9th in Memphis, TN.

To follow and support Katie Guevarra on her journey you can visit: https://www.facebook.com/MissDelawareUSA

https://www.wrde.com/story/42786366/miss-delaware-usa-prepares-for-national-pageant-amid-pandemic